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How to find a healthcare professional

If you have been experiencing signs & symptoms of swallowing difficulties, it is important that you visit a healthcare professional such as a doctor, nurse practitioner, dietitian, speech-language pathologist, or occupational therapist. Find out how to contact one below!


Find a Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner near you:

You can ask your doctor or nurse practitioner for a referral to a registered dietitian, speech-language pathologist, or occupational therapist.


Preparing for your visit with a doctor or nurse practitioner

Your family doctor or nurse practitioner is your access to various healthcare resources. From screening and diagnosis to management recommendations, they are often your first point of contact for medical care for swallowing difficulties.

To help you get the most out of your visit with your doctor or nurse practitioner, here are some questions you may like to ask about your possible swallowing difficulties:

  • How will my swallowing problems be tested?
  • Can we discuss my EAT-10 assessment results?
  • What could be causing my swallowing difficulties?
  • What kind of management options are available, and what can I expect from them?
  • Will I be referred to any other healthcare specialists, and what can I expect from them?
  • What can I do to help manage my swallowing problems at home?
  • Where can I go to learn more about dysphagia and ways to manage this condition at home?

You can expect your doctor or nurse practitioner to ask you a number of questions, such as:

  • How long have you had swallowing difficulties?
  • Can you describe what your swallowing difficulties feel like?
  • Have you taken any self-assessments/screening tools? (discuss your EAT-10 results with your doctor)
  • Can you think of any specific events that caused the swallowing difficulties to start?
  • Are your swallowing difficulties ongoing or do they happen occasionally?
  • Are you doing anything right now to manage your swallowing difficulties at home?
  • How have your swallowing difficulties impacted your life? Have they affected how much you eat or drink? Have they caused any other problems?

Find a Registered Dietitian:


Registered Dietitians or Dietitians, are regulated healthcare professionals who are experts in nutrition and can provide advice on how to ensure a healthy and adequate diet.

Dietitian Services: All services are offered virtually and/or in-person for your convenience. You can book an appointment or a free 15-minute consultation at Dietitian Services.

Dietitians also offer group programs, cooking workshops, workplace wellness presentations, and more.

You can also see a dietitian and pay a fee for an appointment. Visit Find a Dietitian to find a dietitian near you offering these services.


Find a Speech-language Pathologist

Speech-language pathologists (SLP) are healthcare professionals who specialize in identifying and treating communication and swallowing disorders. SLPs are experts in swallowing assessments and the physiology of swallowing.

Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC)


Find an Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in helping patients solve problems that interfere with their ability to do everyday activities such as eating, getting dressed, moving around the house, and participating in social activities.

Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT)